Published: May 10, 2008 08:35 pm      

Clinton, Obama divide Democratic leaders in W.Va.

Political luminaries, past and present in West Virginia, are divided in Tuesday’s Democratic presidential primary.

The latest to make their endorsements were former Gov. Hulett C. Smith of Beckley, along with Senate Majority Leader Truman Chafin, D-Mingo, both of whom came out Friday in favor of Sen. Hillary Clinton of New York.

“Hillary Clinton is a proven and tested leader who is ready to lead on day one,” Smith said.

“We need a president with the strength and experience to create good-paying jobs here at home and make small-town economics a priority again. Hillary’s understanding of the challenges facing working families makes her the right choice for West Virginia.”

Chafin called the New York senator “by far, the most qualified, dynamic, exciting and experienced” candidate in the Democratic race.

“West Virginians are looking for a president who will fight for working families and deliver real solutions,” the Senate leader said.

“Hillary Clinton is ready to take on the tough challenges we face on day one. I am proud to endorse her candidacy.”

Recently, veteran political leader Ken Hechler lent his name to the presidential hopes of Illinois Sen. Barack Obama, saying he displays the same leadership acumen as four “great presidents,” among them Republican Ronald Reagan.

Smith, a lieutenant commander while serving with the Navy in World War II, was governor from 1965 to 1969.

“Hillary will renew our commitment to those who have served our country in the military as well as those who serve our communities by working hard to support their families,” he said.

“There is no question that she understands the challenges facing West Virginians and is ready to provide real solutions.”

Hechler became the fourth West Virginia political notable to endorse Obama, joining Sen. Jay Rockefeller and Rep. Nick Rahall, both D-W.Va.

Auditor Glen Gainer joined the Obama supporters as well, decrying the plan advocated by Clinton and Arizona Sen. John McCain, the Republican nominee-in-waiting, to suspend the federal gas tax of 18.4 cents from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The auditor said voters are weary of such “political gimmicks.”

The 93-year-old Hechler said Obama is inspiring thousands of erstwhile complacent youths to get involved in the political process.

“With Obama in the White House, we will make tremendous progress in restoring the prestige of this nation throughout the world,” he added.

— E-mail: mannix@register-herald.com